October 23, 2015
Henry Schein, Inc. announced Oct. 23 a new partnership with the American College of Prosthodontists Education Foundation to develop new curriculum that incorporates computer-aided design and manufacturing technology into the dental school curriculum.

The partnership commits $1.25 million to the initiative, which will be offered to dental students and practicing dentists through continuing education programs. Several dental schools are expected to pilot the project in 2017.

"We believe CAD/CAM technology enhances dentistry and we are pleased to support this initiative, which will offer dental students the education and training needed to effectively apply this exciting technology in their future work," said Stanley M. Bergman, chair and CEO of Henry Schein. "By rallying the industry to ensure that dental students are fully educated on the practice benefits and patient benefits of digital dentistry, we are helping the dentists of tomorrow succeed."

According to the American College of Prosthodontists, CAD/CAM technology was introduced to dentistry decades ago but is only used in 15 percent of dental practices in the U.S. An ACP study found that the underlying cause of the slow adoption of digital dentistry was the a "relative lack of available education and training about its applications and benefits among users," according to a press release.

"Digital dentistry is transforming patient experiences, as well as opening up incredible new pathways that support excellence, improved workflows, greater productivity and importantly, better care for our patients," said Dr. Lyndon Cooper, ACPEF chair.